“It is critical for high-tech companies like BAE Systems to support STEM education programs and actively engage with young people to ensure the United States has the highly technically skilled workforce of the future. Our national security depends on it.”

As part of the partnership, BAE Systems will sponsor NOVA’s Geospatial Leaders Summer Program. The program, which runs from June 22 to July 20, is designed to introduce at-risk students from Northern Virginia high schools to Geospatial Intelligence studies and help them understand a college education and fulfilling career is within their grasp. BAE Systems volunteers will act as mentors throughout the program, helping students develop invaluable skills such as resume building, networking, and job interviewing techniques.

“This program opens students’ minds to new possibilities, educating them about exciting career opportunities in our field,” said Jordan Becker, vice president and general manager of BAE Systems’ GEOINT-ISR business. “It is critical for high-tech companies like BAE Systems to support STEM education programs and actively engage with young people to ensure the United States has the highly technically skilled workforce of the future. Our national security depends on it.”

Comprised of more than 75,000 students and 2,600 faculty and staff members, NOVA is the largest educational institution in Virginia and the second-largest community college in the United States. NOVA is also one of the most internationally diverse colleges in the nation, with a student body consisting of individuals from more than 180 countries. The college is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and offers more than 160 associate’s degrees and certificate programs.

BAE Systems develops geospatial data and Geospatial Information Systems (GIS) applications, such as its GXP Xplorer and SOCET GXP products, for the Department of Defense and several federal agencies. As part of its partnership with NOVA, BAE Systems is working to develop a Geospatial Intelligence pilot course using BAE Systems’ SOCET GXP. SOCET GXP is currently used by intelligence analysts and military personnel in order to quickly access, process and disseminate the data needed to make mission-critical decisions. BAE Systems is also a major regional supplier of remote sensing, cartography, application-specific databases, data conversion, and GIS solutions for state and local governments, as well as industry.